Clarice: a female name of Latin origin meaning "This name derives from the Imperial Latin word “clàrus,” meaning “clear, bright, famous, illustrious one".It derives from the Latin word "Clàrus".
Clarice is a feminine name that means "This name derives from the Imperial Latin word “clàrus,” meaning “clear, bright, famous, illustrious one". Its Latin origins reflect deep cultural values and traditions that have been passed down through generations. Parents choosing this name often appreciate its profound significance and timeless appeal.
Quick Facts About Clarice
Quick facts about Clarice
Origin
Latin
Gender
Girl name
Popularity
Moderately popular
Researched by Name Doctor Linguistics Team
Our names are verified by professional linguists with expertise in etymology and cultural naming traditions.
Last reviewed: November 2025
Meaning
This name derives from the Imperial Latin word “clàrus,” meaning “clear, bright, famous, illustrious one.” In English, originally in the form “Clare,” the name is in use since the Middle Ages, then replaced by the form “Clara” during the nineteenth century. 1) Clare of Assisi is an Italian saint and one of the first followers of Saint Francis of Assisi). She founded the Order of Poor Ladies, a monastic religious order for women in the Franciscan tradition, and wrote their “Rule of Life,” the first monastic rule known to have been written by a woman. Following her death, the order she founded was renamed in her honor as the Order of Saint Clare, commonly referred to today as the Poor Clares. 2) Saint Clare of Montefalco (Italian: Chiara da Montefalco) (~1268–1308) was an Augustinian nun and abbess. Before becoming a nun, St. Clare was a member of the Third Order of St. Francis (Secular). Pope Leo XIII canonized her on December 8, 1881. The feast day is traditionally observed on August 11 and August 17.
Etymology & Details
Name Root
Clàrus
How to Pronounce Clarice
Clarice is pronounced /kləˈrɪs/(English)
Step-by-step pronunciation guide:
Break it into syllables: Clar-ic-e
Say it like: "KLOOHREEHS"
Practice saying it naturally a few times
✓Pronunciation verified by linguistic sources
Usage & Popularity
Clarice enjoys international appeal, used in 7 different linguistic and cultural contexts including english, norwegian, swedish, and many others. This widespread adoption reflects its universal resonance.
englishnorwegianswedishdanishold english (anglo-saxon)germanold french
Name Relationships
Clarice is a variant form of Claritia, developed through regional pronunciation differences and linguistic evolution. This variation preserves the essential meaning while offering a unique sound.
Clarice means "This name derives from the Imperial Latin word “clàrus,” meaning “clear, bright, famous, illustrious one.” In English, originally in the form “Clare,” the name is in use since the Middle Ages, then replaced by the form “Clara” during the nineteenth century. 1) Clare of Assisi is an Italian saint and one of the first followers of Saint Francis of Assisi). She founded the Order of Poor Ladies, a monastic religious order for women in the Franciscan tradition, and wrote their “Rule of Life,” the first monastic rule known to have been written by a woman. Following her death, the order she founded was renamed in her honor as the Order of Saint Clare, commonly referred to today as the Poor Clares. 2) Saint Clare of Montefalco (Italian: Chiara da Montefalco) (~1268–1308) was an Augustinian nun and abbess. Before becoming a nun, St. Clare was a member of the Third Order of St. Francis (Secular). Pope Leo XIII canonized her on December 8, 1881. The feast day is traditionally observed on August 11 and August 17.". The name comes from Clàrus. This latin name has been passed down through generations, carrying its meaning across different cultures and time periods. Parents who choose Clarice for girls often connect with the name's meaning of "This name derives from the Imperial Latin word “clàrus,” meaning “clear, bright, famous, illustrious one.” In English, originally in the form “Clare,” the name is in use since the Middle Ages, then replaced by the form “Clara” during the nineteenth century. 1) Clare of Assisi is an Italian saint and one of the first followers of Saint Francis of Assisi). She founded the Order of Poor Ladies, a monastic religious order for women in the Franciscan tradition, and wrote their “Rule of Life,” the first monastic rule known to have been written by a woman. Following her death, the order she founded was renamed in her honor as the Order of Saint Clare, commonly referred to today as the Poor Clares. 2) Saint Clare of Montefalco (Italian: Chiara da Montefalco) (~1268–1308) was an Augustinian nun and abbess. Before becoming a nun, St. Clare was a member of the Third Order of St. Francis (Secular). Pope Leo XIII canonized her on December 8, 1881. The feast day is traditionally observed on August 11 and August 17." as a quality they hope to see in their child. While not the most common choice, Clarice's meaningful roots have given it staying power among parents looking for a name with substance. The name is associated with qualities like RELIGION (SAINTS), reflecting its meaning in how people perceive those who carry it.
What is the origin of the name Clarice?
Clarice is a latin name. The name traces back to Clàrus. From its latin roots, Clarice spread to become common in english, norwegian, swedish, danish and other cultures. The latin meaning "This name derives from the Imperial Latin word “clàrus,” meaning “clear, bright, famous, illustrious one.” In English, originally in the form “Clare,” the name is in use since the Middle Ages, then replaced by the form “Clara” during the nineteenth century. 1) Clare of Assisi is an Italian saint and one of the first followers of Saint Francis of Assisi). She founded the Order of Poor Ladies, a monastic religious order for women in the Franciscan tradition, and wrote their “Rule of Life,” the first monastic rule known to have been written by a woman. Following her death, the order she founded was renamed in her honor as the Order of Saint Clare, commonly referred to today as the Poor Clares. 2) Saint Clare of Montefalco (Italian: Chiara da Montefalco) (~1268–1308) was an Augustinian nun and abbess. Before becoming a nun, St. Clare was a member of the Third Order of St. Francis (Secular). Pope Leo XIII canonized her on December 8, 1881. The feast day is traditionally observed on August 11 and August 17." reflects values important in the culture where this name first appeared. Clarice developed as a form of Claritia, adapting over time while keeping its connection to the original name.
Is Clarice a boy or girl name?
Clarice is a girl's name. This traditionally feminine name has been chosen by parents for daughters across many cultures and time periods. In latin tradition, Clarice has historically been given to girls. The meaning "This name derives from the Imperial Latin word “clàrus,” meaning “clear, bright, famous, illustrious one.” In English, originally in the form “Clare,” the name is in use since the Middle Ages, then replaced by the form “Clara” during the nineteenth century. 1) Clare of Assisi is an Italian saint and one of the first followers of Saint Francis of Assisi). She founded the Order of Poor Ladies, a monastic religious order for women in the Franciscan tradition, and wrote their “Rule of Life,” the first monastic rule known to have been written by a woman. Following her death, the order she founded was renamed in her honor as the Order of Saint Clare, commonly referred to today as the Poor Clares. 2) Saint Clare of Montefalco (Italian: Chiara da Montefalco) (~1268–1308) was an Augustinian nun and abbess. Before becoming a nun, St. Clare was a member of the Third Order of St. Francis (Secular). Pope Leo XIII canonized her on December 8, 1881. The feast day is traditionally observed on August 11 and August 17." carries well for a daughter, giving the name lasting appeal.
How do you pronounce Clarice?
Clarice is pronounced "/kləˈrɪs/". This pronunciation follows en language patterns. As a single-syllable name, Clarice is quick to say and easy to call out. Pronunciation may vary slightly in english, norwegian, swedish, where the name is also used. Local accents and language rules can shift certain sounds while keeping the name recognizable. If you're unfamiliar with latin names, listening to a native speaker say Clarice can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis. This pronunciation has been verified and represents the standard way to say the name.
How popular is the name Clarice?
Clarice is somewhat common, familiar to most people. With moderate popularity, Clarice offers familiarity without being everywhere. It's the kind of name people recognize but don't hear every day. Clarice's popularity may vary between latin communities and the broader population, where naming trends differ. The name's meaning of "This name derives from the Imperial Latin word “clàrus,” meaning “clear, bright, famous, illustrious one.” In English, originally in the form “Clare,” the name is in use since the Middle Ages, then replaced by the form “Clara” during the nineteenth century. 1) Clare of Assisi is an Italian saint and one of the first followers of Saint Francis of Assisi). She founded the Order of Poor Ladies, a monastic religious order for women in the Franciscan tradition, and wrote their “Rule of Life,” the first monastic rule known to have been written by a woman. Following her death, the order she founded was renamed in her honor as the Order of Saint Clare, commonly referred to today as the Poor Clares. 2) Saint Clare of Montefalco (Italian: Chiara da Montefalco) (~1268–1308) was an Augustinian nun and abbess. Before becoming a nun, St. Clare was a member of the Third Order of St. Francis (Secular). Pope Leo XIII canonized her on December 8, 1881. The feast day is traditionally observed on August 11 and August 17." likely influences its appeal, as parents often choose names that express values or hopes for their children. Among girls' names, Clarice holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
What are variations of the name Clarice?
Clarice is a form of Claritia. Over time, Claritia developed into several variations, with Clarice emerging as a distinct form used in certain regions or languages. In latin tradition, these variations allow the core name to work across different contexts while maintaining its character. All variations preserve the meaning "This name derives from the Imperial Latin word “clàrus,” meaning “clear, bright, famous, illustrious one.” In English, originally in the form “Clare,” the name is in use since the Middle Ages, then replaced by the form “Clara” during the nineteenth century. 1) Clare of Assisi is an Italian saint and one of the first followers of Saint Francis of Assisi). She founded the Order of Poor Ladies, a monastic religious order for women in the Franciscan tradition, and wrote their “Rule of Life,” the first monastic rule known to have been written by a woman. Following her death, the order she founded was renamed in her honor as the Order of Saint Clare, commonly referred to today as the Poor Clares. 2) Saint Clare of Montefalco (Italian: Chiara da Montefalco) (~1268–1308) was an Augustinian nun and abbess. Before becoming a nun, St. Clare was a member of the Third Order of St. Francis (Secular). Pope Leo XIII canonized her on December 8, 1881. The feast day is traditionally observed on August 11 and August 17.", so choosing between them comes down to sound preference and cultural fit rather than different meanings. Parents drawn to Clarice might also consider these related forms, especially if they want options for siblings or prefer a more traditional or modern feel. In english and norwegian, Clarice may be more or less common than its variations, depending on local naming customs.
Where is the name Clarice commonly used?
Clarice spans multiple cultures, including english, norwegian, swedish, and 4 other traditions. Though latin in origin, Clarice found a home in other cultures where it resonated with local naming preferences. Names that work across multiple cultures, like Clarice, often have straightforward pronunciation and positive meanings that translate well. The meaning "This name derives from the Imperial Latin word “clàrus,” meaning “clear, bright, famous, illustrious one.” In English, originally in the form “Clare,” the name is in use since the Middle Ages, then replaced by the form “Clara” during the nineteenth century. 1) Clare of Assisi is an Italian saint and one of the first followers of Saint Francis of Assisi). She founded the Order of Poor Ladies, a monastic religious order for women in the Franciscan tradition, and wrote their “Rule of Life,” the first monastic rule known to have been written by a woman. Following her death, the order she founded was renamed in her honor as the Order of Saint Clare, commonly referred to today as the Poor Clares. 2) Saint Clare of Montefalco (Italian: Chiara da Montefalco) (~1268–1308) was an Augustinian nun and abbess. Before becoming a nun, St. Clare was a member of the Third Order of St. Francis (Secular). Pope Leo XIII canonized her on December 8, 1881. The feast day is traditionally observed on August 11 and August 17." carries universal appeal, helping explain why different cultures adopted Clarice into their naming traditions. A child named Clarice will likely find their name recognized in multiple countries, which can be an advantage for families with international connections or who value global accessibility. Across these cultures, Clarice is given to girls, maintaining consistent gender association.
What is the cultural significance of Clarice?
Clarice carries associations with RELIGION (SAINTS). These qualities shape how people perceive the name and those who carry it, creating expectations and first impressions. The name's meaning of "This name derives from the Imperial Latin word “clàrus,” meaning “clear, bright, famous, illustrious one.” In English, originally in the form “Clare,” the name is in use since the Middle Ages, then replaced by the form “Clara” during the nineteenth century. 1) Clare of Assisi is an Italian saint and one of the first followers of Saint Francis of Assisi). She founded the Order of Poor Ladies, a monastic religious order for women in the Franciscan tradition, and wrote their “Rule of Life,” the first monastic rule known to have been written by a woman. Following her death, the order she founded was renamed in her honor as the Order of Saint Clare, commonly referred to today as the Poor Clares. 2) Saint Clare of Montefalco (Italian: Chiara da Montefalco) (~1268–1308) was an Augustinian nun and abbess. Before becoming a nun, St. Clare was a member of the Third Order of St. Francis (Secular). Pope Leo XIII canonized her on December 8, 1881. The feast day is traditionally observed on August 11 and August 17." reinforces these associations, connecting the literal translation to the character traits people expect. In latin culture, where Clarice originates, these qualities held particular value, making the name a way to express hopes for a child's character. Research shows that names do influence perceptions. People form impressions based on names before meeting someone, which means choosing Clarice sets certain expectations. Parents choosing Clarice often connect with one or more of these associations, selecting the name because it represents qualities they value or wish for their child. In english communities, these associations may carry extra weight, as naming traditions often reinforce cultural values.
Sources: Etymology verified through linguistic research including Oxford Dictionary of First Names, Behind the Name, and academic etymology databases.